The best part about living a 20 minute train ride away from London is that we try to get into the city every time we want to make a romantic date-day out of it. You’ll never have a boring date-day with that someone special in London. So this Valentine’s Day, we’ve done the swooning and wooing to bring you our favourite experiences that will make you fall head over heels in love all over again. Whether you’ve been married for years or going on your first date, if you’re planning a day out for a loved one, read on:
Indulge in a culinary experience through Chinatown
Some of the finest restaurants lie in London’s Chinatown. If either of you are foodies, this is something that can’t be missed. A walk through some of the bylanes will tantalise your senses and if you chance on a menu you like, you’re likely to score some tasty and light on the pocket meals. The sheer choice on offer can be a little overwhelming but at least you have someone to share everything with. Here are 9 delicious things to eat in Chinatown.
Dig into a London themed afternoon tea at The Biscuiteers
Nothing is more British than
Watch the skyline light up in the Sky Garden
There’s nothing more romantic than watching the city light up while holding hands with the one you love. The sky garden has by far the best panoramic views of London’s skyline. This observation deck located on the 43rd floor of the Walkie Talkie is free if you plan in advance. If you are unable to book a reservation ahead of time, The City Garden Bar and Sky Pod Bar within this green haven are welcome to walk-in diners. It truly is a magical place and a beautiful garden high up in the sky.
Wander around Notting Hill
Be just a girl standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her. Notting Hill is so much more than just a movie and pastel coloured yet beautiful houses. It’s a place to get lost in bookstores, have hearty conversations in cafes, walk hand in hand as you shop for homegrown ingredients at Portobello Market and look for those vintage antique dealers. It’s a place to feel young and in love. Here is a route map to help you lovebirds stroll and some more things to do in Notting Hill
Embrace the wild
Become Zookeepers for the day at London Zoo with your date and I’m certain it will be the wildest date you’ve been on. I was completely out of my comfort zone for this one! I love animals, but I haven’t been in arms reach of most wild ones and definitely not behind the glass and in their enclosures. But it was the best date day experience ever! Learning to trust each other’s presence is the best thing you can do for your relationship. We got to get up close to the zoo’s meerkats, camels, penguins, giraffes, Galapagos turtles, coatis, spider monkeys and so much more. It’s a full day’s hard work, but you also play hard with all the cute li’l meerkats. More details here.
Take a class together
A new way to bring you two closer is to do something you’ve never done before. When you’re in a relationship for a long time, things can get mundane and it’s nice to spice thing up with a cooking class or shake a leg at a dance class. No matter what your class of choice is, having something that you can do together as a couple can help deepen your relationship. It doesn’t have to be expensive, there are lots of classes that one can find on Groupon.
Take a guided tour of St Paul’s cathedral
Begin from the outside in the West front of St Paul’s, wander the gardens and allow yourself some time to take in its magnificent architecture.Taking a guided tour in your own city might seem weird at first but there’s always a first time to everything. You’ll be impressed with the number of facts you’d have never known. Imagine the iconic weddings that once happened here and don’t forget to climb to the top and whisper to each other to experience the acoustics of the famous Whispering Gallery.
Indulge in some interactive theatre
Dinner is great, but dinner with entertainment is even better. We booked tickets to the Faulty Towers Dining Experience and had a ball of a time. A delicious three course meal accompanied by an outrageously funny performance that left us very happy and high spirited.
Picnic in Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden
If the weather is half decent this garden if peaceful and breathtaking. You and your partner will feel like you’ve been transported to Kyoto. Snuggle up in a warm blanket while you stretch your legs and snack on all your picnic basket treats. If it’s too cold, we recommend a nice walk through the garden since it’s beautiful even during the winters. There are several cafes and dining options at the exit. If its raining go on a lunch date at BoroughMarket and sample small bites from different vendors.
Make magic!
Give into your geeky sides and embrace the Potterheads in both of you. Well (in my case) get him to watch them all first! Your relationship may not need a love potion, but a class of mixology at The Cauldron will not only leave you high spirited but also make you believe in the power of magic. Everyone needs a li’l dose of this every now and then. If you want to take things to the next level as a Potterhead visit the Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. There’s no need for any potions here but guaranteed fun nonetheless.
We hope this list inspires you to get out and into London. And though London may have its days of being too big, too cold and too wet, don’t worry, with the right person it will feel perfect! Also don’t ye fret if you’re single, I did some of these by myself much before I introduced Damian to these hidden gems, you can still go solo and fall in love with London.
You could also explore sightseeing in London for Children if you have kids.
Good luck finding love in London!
For more on our travels and to read more about everything travel has taught in 2018 Click Here.
I love afternoon tea, this one looks delicious! I love a day out in London.
I work in London so sometime this stops me coming back in with the kids at the weekend. Although we are hoping to get some day trips in soon. Love the look of biscuiters and the Sky Garden has been on my list for ages!!
Beautiful! There’s so much I didn’t know about London! Thank you for the tour…keep writing!
I love Sky Garden and it always amazes me that it’s free. That afternoon tea looks amazing
Great romantic ideas here. I would love to explore London.
It’s always been my dream to be in London and if I would have a chance, I would choose to have a day out in London too. Thank you for sharing your experience.